Sometimes I confuse myself because, for all my theorising about RPGs, the experience I have whenever I sit down with a group of nice, friendly, open gamers is simply positive. While we can endlessly debate the pros and cons of worlds, methods, and rules in the end the largest single determining factor is the people at the table.

It’s easy to forget.

For example, today I ran a game with seven other players set in Fellmyr and powered by GURPS. It was, as I usually describe it, a regular kind of classic fantasy game: fairly generic fantasy world, simple dungeon scenario, played using the Dungeon Fantasy RPG. Too much focus on the wargame aspects for my usual taste but it was a good time.

The people made it what it was, not the rest. I mean, yeah for sure, it could have been slicker and I could have run it better. But we had a good time… or at least, I had a good time and the others said they did too. Those players were lovely to spend a few hours with and, all other factors aside, I definitely enjoyed their company.

Why does this confuse me? Because for far too many years I have believed that what I do as a GM, or even as a player, will make or break the session. But the truth is much simpler: nice, friendly, open gamers are what makes or breaks a session.

You should just turn up and play. Do your best to make it a fun time but, in the end, it’s really the group that makes it.

Game on!